Kathmandu, Nov. 16 -- Nepal's monthly remittance inflows have crossed the Rs200 billion mark for the first time, driven mainly by a stronger US dollar and stricter Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures that have improved transparency and security in money transfers.

A report released by Nepal's central bank on Sunday shows remittances reached Rs201.22 billion from mid-September to mid-October, up from Rs144.17 billion during the same period last year.

The record inflow reflects the seasonal surge during the major festivals-Dashain, Tihar and Chhath-when Nepalis abroad typically send more money home. Economists say nearly 40 percent of annual GDP-related economic activity occurs during this festive period.

Remittance inflows rose 35.4 pe...